Publisher's Synopsis
When Mary Allen stepped into the role of Chief Executive of the Royal Opera House in May 1997 she was aware that she had acccepted a challenge. Balancing artistic egos, the demands of the Arts Council, the scrutiny of politicians and the interests of the sponsors with the urgent need to keep the House afloat, all under the unblinking eye of the press, was enough to daunt anyone. What she did not know was the full extent of the financial crisis the House was in.
A HOUSE DIVIDED is Mary Allen's enthralling diary of her short, tumultuous period as head of the ROH. As she struggled to reform chaotic management and financial procedures, oversee the successful completion of the new Opera House and find homes for the two companies, the House itself was found to be only hours away from bankruptcy.
Written with Mary Allen's characteristic verve and brio, A HOUSE DIVIDED offers a unique and honest insight into the rarified world of the arts superleague.
